The city of Springfield has a new Top Cop.
38-year veteran of the Springfield Police Department Larry Akers will become the city’s new police chief. He will succeed the current superintendent,
Cheryl Clapprood. Clapprood has been in the department for 44 years.
Police Superintendent Cheryl Clapprood stated, “I want to thank Mayor Sarno for his trust, belief and confidence in my abilities to lead the brave women and men of our Springfield Police Department. I truly appreciate his continued friendship and leadership as we worked together with all of our public safety partners and community stakeholders implementing the numerous reforms and initiatives to make the Springfield Police Department the best it can be. For over 44 years, I have served with the Springfield Police Department, working alongside man great co-workers and friends, some who have passed away, others retired and still some serving. It has been an honor to serve with them and my community. I am proud of the work we have collectively done to help those in need. Police work is an honorable profession, one where saving lives is paramount. Although there have been some difficult and challenging times, I am proud of the work we have done to make Springfield a place where everyone is happy to live and work. I am now looking forward to my retirement and spending more quality time with family and friends, especially our four-legged fur babies. I will still be around, helping out in whatever capacity that I may be needed.”
Clapprood says she is looking forward to retirement- spending quality time with family and friends and with her four-legged fur babies.
Akers becomes the first African American man to run the department. He is expected to be sworn in by May,
Deputy Chief Lawrence Akers thanked Mayor Sarno and Police Superintendent for their support and belief in his abilities to lead the men and women of the Springfield Police Department. “I cannot thank Mayor Sarno and Superintendent Clapprood enough for their continued support and confidence in me to lead our Springfield Police Department. To serve as the top public safety official for the City of Springfield, commanding the brave and dedicated men and women who serve and protect our community, is a great honor. To think that this second-generation Springfield police officer and motorcycle cop will serve as Police Superintendent is a great honor. I am very proud and humbled by this promotion. I want to thank my family, especially my wife Mary, for always being by my side during good times and challenging times. Thank you.”
Clapprood will reach the mandatory retirement age in May.
(Photo Provided by Mayor Dom Sarno's Office)